A rain and snowy mix falling steadily, temperatures dropping in the low 30s and wind stinging like a horse’s tail against your face.
That’s the weather these ladies fought to get to book club, but homemade bread pudding, coffee cake and piping hot coffee with hazelnut creamer, good friends, and laughter made it worth the trek to the Cornerstone cafe to discuss faith and fiction. We missed those who couldn’t come and always make book club night special!
What’d we read? This month was Amish fiction. Many, including myself, had never read an Amish story. Oh, we’ve bought their bread and cheese and wondered. We may have watched an episode of Law and Order when one got killed on Rumspringa, but never read a story.
So this was an experience. Especially for many who enjoy a fast-paced thriller with romance that makes us want to fan ourselves but not so edgy we have to take a trip to the altar on Sunday. But seriously, are we responsible for our subconscious dreams? Another blog. Another day.
We chose A Stranger’s Wish. It sounded mysterious. A key given to a Englishwoman. Not from Britain, as I thought at first. But what Amish people call, you know… us.
Here were some of our thoughts:
“I liked how the Amish parents didn’t give up on their son, even when he chose not to become a devout member.”
“I liked the main character’s quirkiness and her creativity.”
“I wanted more meat, but this book was mostly light-hearted and quick.”
“I thought there was going to be a bigger twist, but then it wasn’t and I was disappointed.”
“I couldn’t relate to the characters. Any of them.”
I asked, “Did you discover anything interesting about the Amish?”
“I didn’t realize the Amish were so works-based and not faith-based.”
“I think they should live by faith and drive a car. Seems easier.”
I admit, we giggled at that.
Overall, I have to say, this wasn’t the groups’ favorite read, but we didn’t hate it. And we all said we’d read more Amish fiction! After taking a poll, the rating for this book came in at 2 stars out of 5.
We chose (out of 14 Christmas novel choices) to read A Christmas Note by Donna VanLiere for December, who we have never heard of. Have you?
Do you read Amish fiction? Or write it? What fascinates you about these books or doesn’t? Here’s a peek at A Stranger’s Wish:
